Rats are a classic Banksy statement, perhaps because of the way they can "colonize" virtually every space, or the way they move fast and without a trace, or maybe the rate at which they reproduce; rats are classic Banksy elements to portray and represent society’s questionable actions, hopes,and trends.

This original screen print was made at POW* collective and sprayed many times across the globe as a graffiti piece, particularly in the USA, where "gangsta" style is not only a culture but a fashion trend.

It was first editioned in 2004, in the red color with 150 “Gangsta Rat” signed prints and 350 unsigned prints. In 2015, the artist re-released some rare colourways. These were limited to 46 pink, 8 mint green, 20 green, 61 orange, 61 blue and 61 grey for special VIP collectors for Dismaland in Weston-super-Mare.

* Pictures on Walls (POW) began life in 2003, partly by Banksy. It allowed artists to sell direct and not have to pay commission to a dealer. It helped many now-famous street artists make a living by producing high-quality original prints.